Part 2/7:
The first step to survival in the wild is establishing a suitable shelter. The adventurer begins by moving snow to find a solid surface. The varying layers of snow require the use of a knife to effectively cut through crusty ice layers, making it easier to manage larger blocks instead of handfuls. A patch about the size of a queen mattress is cleared to reveal hard, well-draining soil — an essential factor since standing water or ice can lead to hypothermia.
Once a basic shelter area is prepared, the adventurer discovers they need to work fast; the conditions can turn dire if not managed properly. For additional warmth from the ground, it is crucial to create and maintain a large fire.